Giving medication to a pet is often the hardest part of treatment. A compounded preparation in a flavor the animal accepts can make dosing easier for everyone.
Flavor depends on species
- Dogs often accept meat, peanut butter-style and sweet flavors.
- Cats lack the receptors to taste sweetness, so meat and fish flavors are typical.
- Horses commonly accept apple and molasses-type flavors.
Ingredient safety
Some ingredients that are fine for people are dangerous to animals. Xylitol, a sweetener found in some human products, is toxic to dogs. Veterinary preparations should be made from bases known to be appropriate for the species.
Safe storage at home
Flavored medications can tempt pets and children. Store them out of reach, and call your veterinarian or an animal poison control service if an animal gets into a supply.
This article is educational and is not medical or veterinary advice. Talk with your prescriber, veterinarian or pharmacist about your own situation.